Shaza Fatima Khawaja and SDAIA President agree to advance collaboration in artificial intelligence, data governance and emerging technologies.
Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja held a meeting with Abdullah bin Sharaf Al-Ghamdi, President of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), during LEAP 2026 in Riyadh.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in artificial intelligence, data governance and other emerging technologies. The discussions highlighted the growing importance of digital transformation and AI-driven solutions in supporting economic development.
During the meeting, Shaza Fatima Khawaja briefed the SDAIA president on Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to promote artificial intelligence and improve data governance. She outlined initiatives aimed at developing a stronger digital ecosystem and supporting the country’s transition towards a technology-driven economy.
The federal minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to establishing a robust and reliable data ecosystem. She emphasized the importance of effective data governance and the adoption of advanced technologies to strengthen the country’s digital economy.
The engagement also reflected Pakistan’s efforts to expand international partnerships in the technology sector. Cooperation with Saudi Arabia could provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, technological collaboration and the development of innovative digital solutions.
Both sides agreed to continue discussions aimed at establishing a comprehensive and sustainable partnership between the two countries. The proposed collaboration will focus particularly on artificial intelligence, data governance and advanced technologies.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of LEAP 2026 in Riyadh, one of the major technology events bringing together governments, technology companies, investors and innovators from around the world.
Pakistan has increasingly been focusing on artificial intelligence, digital transformation and technology-led economic growth as part of its broader strategy to strengthen the IT sector. Collaboration with Saudi Arabia could further support these objectives by creating avenues for cooperation in emerging technologies.
The latest engagement demonstrates the expanding technology relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Continued dialogue between relevant institutions is expected to help both countries explore practical areas of cooperation and develop a long-term framework for collaboration in AI and data governance.
Overall, the discussions marked another step towards stronger Pakistan Saudi Arabia AI cooperation, with both countries expressing interest in building a sustainable partnership around digital technologies and innovation.